Versizo

Demographics

Because of its function as a trading hub, Versizo is one of the most multicultural cities on the planet. Even discounting the traders that pass through from every nation on four continents, Versizo's citizens include representatives of every major race: elves, dwarves, humans, motu, and even small populations of mardik and dragonfolk. Like most cities in Sicenia, though, its largest demographic is half-elves.

Government

Officially, Versizo is ruled by a quasi-religious figure known as the Dux. This position is elected for life from a circle of eligible aristocrats, and the same group are the only ones entitled to vote on this matter. Once elected, the Dux must pledge himself—or sometimes herself—to the service of the Kadarin god Philotimo, and swear to follow the tenets laid out in a unique creed intended to keep the Dux pure, holy, and in touch with the god's will. Among other commandments, the creed forbids the Dux from speaking to anyone who is not a citizen of Versizo 'by blood or water': having either been born in the city to parents with citizenship or baptised as a citizen in the waters of the delta.

Defences

Versizo relies for its defence on its coastal location, making an attack from the seaward side very difficult. Outlying islands provide the first line of defence from that direction, while an attempted invasion from land can be foiled by raising or blocking the bridges that connect Versizo's islands to the mainland.

Guilds and Factions

As a port city and a centre of trade, Versizo is dominated by rival merchant guilds from across three continents. Although the official leadership of the city is a religious position, this is largely ceremonial. The real power lies in the hands of the most powerful guilds, who are constantly jockeying for supremacy. The right to use certain docks, warehouses and market spaces is on sale to the highest bidder, and bribes also frequently direct questions of state policy.

History

Once part of the Kadarin Empire, Versizo has been an independent city-state since shortly after the Empire's fall.

Architecture

While the oldest structures in Versizo are built in the traditional pale marble that characterised the Kadarin Empire, the modern city is a bright jumble of architectural styles ranging from an elven tent city to the upturned-boat houses of the motu.

Geography

Versizo is built on and around a cluster of islands in a river delta, providing it with a multitude of natural harbours and waterways. Bridges crisscross the myriad channels at every height, connecting the city into a cohesive whole, while boats and barges pass back and forth below.

Natural Resources

Although Versizo itself does not have a particular abundance of any resource, its proximity to the coast and also to several prosperous farming regions means it is well-placed for trade.

Type

Large city

Location under

Sicene Archipelago